Cinnamon Apples
Indulge in the warm, aromatic flavors of cinnamon apples, a simple yet delicious dessert that brings comfort and joy. This recipe combines sweet, tender apples with fragrant cinnamon, creating a harmonious blend that can elevate any meal. Whether served warm with ice cream or as a cozy breakfast topping, cinnamon apples are sure to delight your palate and fill your home with a wonderful aroma.
Ingredients
– 4 medium apples (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
– Pinch of salt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is 10 minutes, with a cooking time of 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately 180 calories, 5g of fat, 32g of carbohydrates, and 2g of protein. This is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Wash and core the apples, then slice them into thin wedges.
- In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the apple slices to the skillet and sauté for about 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon over the apples.
- Add nutmeg and a pinch of salt, stirring to combine.
- Pour lemon juice over the mixture to enhance flavor.
- Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until apples are tender.
- Transfer the cooked apples to a baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes for extra caramelization.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute brown sugar with maple syrup or honey for a different flavor profile. Use any type of apple you prefer, but tart varieties work best for balancing sweetness.
Serving and Pairings
Cinnamon apples pair beautifully with vanilla ice cream, yogurt, or pancakes. They can also be served alongside pork dishes or as a topping for oatmeal.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop. Freezing is not recommended as it may affect the texture.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using overly ripe apples can lead to mushy results.
- Not adjusting sugar based on the apple’s natural sweetness.
- Overcooking can result in a loss of flavor and texture.
- Skipping the lemon juice can make the dish overly sweet.
- Not preheating the oven may lead to uneven cooking.
Helpful Tips
- Mix different apple varieties for a more complex flavor.
- Serve with a sprinkle of chopped nuts for added crunch.
- For a spicier kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Experiment with different spices like cardamom or ginger.
FAQs
Can I make cinnamon apples ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare cinnamon apples a few hours in advance. Just store them covered at room temperature until serving, or refrigerate if making a day ahead.
What types of apples are best for this recipe?
Tart apples like Granny Smith or sweet varieties like Honeycrisp work best. Choose apples that hold their shape during cooking.
Can I use a slow cooker for cinnamon apples?
Absolutely! Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours for a hands-off approach.
Are cinnamon apples healthy?
While they contain sugar, cinnamon apples are a healthier dessert option compared to processed sweets, especially when made with less sugar.
Can I add other fruits?
Yes, pears or berries can be added for a delightful twist. Just adjust cooking time according to the fruit used.
Conclusion
Cinnamon apples are a simple yet satisfying dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether as a dessert, breakfast topping, or a side dish, they bring warmth and comfort to the table. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delightful flavors of fall in every bite.
Cinnamon Apples
Ingredients
- 4 medium apples
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg optional
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Wash and core the apples, then slice them into thin wedges.
- In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the apple slices to the skillet and sauté for about 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon over the apples.
- Add nutmeg and a pinch of salt, stirring to combine.
- Pour lemon juice over the mixture to enhance flavor.
- Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until apples are tender.
- Transfer the cooked apples to a baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes for extra caramelization.
